IPL 2025: How many Matches will MS Dhoni Captain CSK as Ruturaj Gaikwad suffers Injury?

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MS Dhoni has taken over the captaincy of Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2025 season after Ruturaj Gaikwad was ruled out due to injury.

Gaikwad, who suffered a hairline fracture on his elbow during CSK's match against Rajasthan Royals, continued to play in the following two fixtures before scans confirmed the extent of the injury.

Head coach Stephen Fleming confirmed the leadership change, stating that Dhoni will return as captain in Gaikwad's absence.

This marks Dhoni's second stint as CSK skipper after he handed over the role to Gaikwad ahead of the 2024 season. Under Dhoni, CSK won five IPL titles - in 2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, and 2023 - and consistently remained one of the most successful franchises in the league.

CSK are currently placed ninth in the points table with one win in five matches. The team faces Kolkata Knight Riders next at home, with Dhoni returning to lead the side. It has come as a big blow for CSK as Gaikwad will be out for them, but the immediate notion is that CSK fans are overwhelmed with the return of their favourite Thala as captain.

How Many Matches will MS Dhoni Captain CSK?

"Unfortunately, Ruturaj Gaikwad is going to be ruled out of the tournament," CSK coach Stephen Fleming said. "He got hit in Guwahati. He's been operating with an amount of pain. We got an X-ray, which was inconclusive, and we had an MRI, which revealed a fracture in his elbow, so we're disappointed and feel for him."

It clearly denotes that MS Dhoni will not be leading the CSK side for the remainder of the tournament. With already five matches done, the former India captain is expected to lead the side for the next nine group stage matches, which shall increase if CSK qualify for the playoffs.